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Donald Trump brands golf course vandals 'terrorists' and calls for 'harsh' punishment

The President spoke out ahead of a 33-year-old's court appearance today.

Donald Trump has called for "harsh" punishments for the "terrorists" who caused damage at the President's Trump Turnberry golf resort in Scotland.

He spoke about his wishes for those involved in the incident at the Ayrshire golf resort ahead of a 33-year-old man appearing in court later today.

Red paint was sprayed on the clubhouse at the 800-acre resort and damage was also caused to the greens at the course, on Maidens Road, Turnberry, South Ayrshire.

It was reported to police at around 4.40am on Saturday March 8, and Police Scotland said a 33-year-old man has been charged in connection with the incident.

President Donald Trump.
President Donald Trump.(Image: Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

A 75-year-old man and a 66-year-old woman were previously arrested as part of the investigation and have since been released pending further enquiries.

In a post on his Truth Social account on Sunday, Mr Trump said: "I was just informed by Prime Minister Starmer of the United Kingdom, that they caught the terrorists who attacked the beautiful Turnberry, in Scotland.

"They did serious damage, and will hopefully be treated harshly." Mr Trump claimed "three people who did this are in prison", adding: "You cannot let things like this attack happen."

"I greatly appreciate the work of Prime Minister Starmer, and UK Law Enforcement." The 33-year-old man is expected to appear at Ayr Sheriff Court on Monday, and Police Scotland said that, despite the arrests, enquiries into the incident are still ongoing.

Downing Street said Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Mr Trump had a phone call on Sunday evening, in which the two leaders agreed on a strategy regarding Russia.

They said they need to "keep up the collective pressure" on Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Prime Minister also updated the US leader on the latest meeting of the so-called coalition of the willing when they spoke, according to Downing Street.

Described as an "upscale golf hotel in an Edwardian building dating from 1906", Trump Turnberry overlooks the sea and is five miles from Culzean Castle and 16 miles from Ayr..

It is home to The Ailsa and King Robert The Bruce courses, has hosted four open championships, and can be booked for upwards of £300 per night. The Trump Turnberry website says it offers "a world-class golf experience".

Damage to the greens at Trump Turnberry.
Damage to the greens at Trump Turnberry.(Image: PA.)

The Trump website also boasts of its Golf Academy. It says: "What makes the Academy so special is the technology and expert advice to be found in the three rooms immediately off the reception area.

"Here, a combination of world class practice facilities, cutting edge technology and expert PGA professional tuition ensures an unforgettable experience for all golfers."

The website adds: "The first is the putting facility where, using the fantastic Science and Motion “Sam” analysis you can learn every facet of your stroke.

"Secondly, the teaching bay incorporates “Trackman” dual radar technology, together with “Gasp’s” three slow motion cameras, to record and fully and allow the teaching professional to advise you on every aspect of your swing.

"Finally, in the third studio, “True Spec” fitting provides a truly brand-agnostic service which, from a matrix of 30,000 shaft and head combinations will fit you with a bespoke club selection entirely unique to your needs.

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"A selection of tuition packages is available and can be tailored to suit any golfer, regardless of age or ability. These range from introductory suitable for complete beginners, to those playing at a more advanced level.

"Thanks to video technology we can email you your swing and technical results to work on at home, and use of our exceptional short game area, indoor teaching facility and our custom fitting studio can ensure that every aspect of your game is catered for.

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